Snehasis Mukherjee in Navi Mumbai
Rain had the last word in the final group-stage match of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, as the clash between India and Bangladesh in Navi Mumbai was abandoned due to persistent rain.
It turned out to be a disappointing outing for the record crowd that had gathered at the DY Patil Stadium. The official attendance was 25,965, surpassing the previous best of 25,166, recorded during India’s clash against Australia in Vizag. Despite the game having no impact on India’s semi-final qualification, the fans showed immense passion and support, making it an evening to remember.
India’s revised DLS target was 126 in 27 overs. With Pratika Rawal unable to open after suffering an ankle injury while fielding, Amanjot Kaur walked out alongside Smriti Mandhana. Pratika had twisted her ankle near the boundary line earlier and was seen limping off the field in pain.
The pair gave India a solid start. Smriti Mandhana (34)* and Amanjot Kaur (15)* added 57 runs in 8.4 overs before rain returned once again, forcing the players off the field. The showers continued, and the match was eventually called off.
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From the start, the day was marred by weather interruptions. The toss was delayed by 35 minutes, and just when Harmanpreet Kaur finally won it and opted to bowl first, the rain returned. After a long wait, play began with each side set to bat for 43 overs.
India began well with the ball. Renuka Singh Thakur struck in the very first over, and Deepti Sharma followed with another wicket, reducing Bangladesh to 39/2 in 12.2 overs before rain halted play again.
After almost two hours, the match resumed, now reduced to 27 overs per side. Once play restarted, India continued their strong performance. Radha Yadav’s direct throw ran out Bangladesh skipper Nigar Sultana Joty, and the left-arm spinner went on to claim three wickets. N Shree Charani took two. Sharmin Akhter and Sobhana Mostary scored 36 and 26, respectivel,y as Bangladesh finished with 119/9 in 27 overs.
Now all focus shifts to October 30, when team India take on the defending champions, Australia, in the second semi-final at the very same venue.
